The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced an interim rule Friday that sets thresholds on the interest rates charged by lenders on guaranteed farm ownership and operating loans.

USDA office of communications

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced an interim rule Friday that sets thresholds on the interest rates charged by lenders on guaranteed farm ownership and operating loans. The changes will amend guidelines for interest rates and establish new policies that clearly set the maximum interest rate lenders may charge to borrowers.

"By providing clear thresholds on interest rates for federally-guaranteed farm loans, USDA is ensuring greater certainty to producers, making compliance easier for our lenders and ensuring greater benefits for all farmers and ranchers," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "It is important that American agriculture continue to play a key role in driving economic growth and creating good-paying jobs across the American middle class. By setting thresholds on interest rates, USDA will strengthen access to farm credit."